Amber Hooke

Amber Hooke has been playing the violin since fourth grade. She fell in love with the instrument and dove head first after beginning private lessons in 7th grade. She majored in Violin Performance at the Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music, graduating in 2018. After college, Amber returned to Pittsburgh and ran her own private violin studio for five years. She is now a full-time freelance violinist performing with the Westmoreland and Johnstown Symphonies as well as maintaining her full season of performances with Radiant Strings.

How did you first start playing with Radiant Strings?

I have been making music with Nicole [Radiant Strings founder] and Ahmer’e [Radiant Strings founding team member] since high school, but I officially started playing with Radiant Strings in 2021 when Nicole reached out and asked if I would join them for a few weddings during their season. After 2 years of playing with the group I took on the role of Music Director in 2023, becoming an official core member of the group.

2025 was also the first season of our official partnership between Radiant Strings / Amber Hooke Music. I’m thankful that I’m able to continue playing as an established soloist in my own style alongside Radiant Strings, serving a wide range of couples.

What makes Radiant Strings special to you?

Radiant Strings is super special to me because the members are not only my colleagues, but also my very dear friends. The group understands how to balance professionalism and fun, and our time together is always full of laughter and challenging one another to higher musical standards. Radiant Strings allows me to continue living out my dream of performing while also being a full-time mom.